Derek Boogard Death Ruled Accidental

The cause of death of New York Rangers forward Derek Boogaard has been ruled accidental and attributed to a mixture of drugs and alcohol.

The Hennepin County (Minn.) Medical Examiner's office listed the cause of death as a mixture of alcohol and oxycodone toxicity. Oxycodone is categorized as a painkiller. The report said the manner of death was accidental and that no other data will be released.

Boogaard, a 28-year-old left wing, was found dead in his Minnesota apartment on Friday. Boogaard was a 2001 seventh-round pick of the Minnesota Wild and spent his first five NHL seasons with the organization. He signed with the Rangers in July, but was limited to just 22 games due to a shoulder injury and a concussion.

Boogaard's family issued the following statement Friday through the NHL Players' Association:

"We would like to express our appreciation for the outpouring of love and support for our family during this difficult period as we grieve the loss of Derek -- our son and brother. We are deeply saddened by this unimaginable loss, but we are grateful for the expression of support that has given us strength as we go through this tragic time.

"It is very comforting for our family to know that, while Derek's life was far too short, he had a great impact on many people who he came into contact with. We are proud that Derek was able to live his boyhood dream to play in the National Hockey League. We are even more proud of the fact that Derek was dedicated to making a difference in his adopted communities of Minnesota and New York City, through his countless hours of charitable work.

"Earlier today, we received the results of Derek's toxicology report at the time of his accidental death. After repeated courageous attempts at rehabilitation and with the full support of the New York Rangers, the NHLPA, and the NHL, Derek had been showing tremendous improvement but was ultimately unable to beat this opponent. While he played and lived with pain for many years, his passion for the game, his teammates, and his community work was unstoppable.

"Our family would like to like to thank the New York Rangers, the Minnesota Wild, the National Hockey League Players' Association, and the National Hockey League for supporting Derek's continued efforts in his battle.

"Derek will be greatly missed and will never be forgotten by his fans, friends, and teammates, and especially by us -- his family. We respectfully ask for continued privacy as we grieve the loss of Derek."